Statistics SA’s latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey shows that the expanded unemployment rate for women stands at 47%, compared to 39% for men.

Economist Dr Nthabiseng Moleko says more needs to be done to ensure that employment opportunities are inclusive and responsive to the unique challenges faced by women, especially those living in rural areas and townships.

“We need a labour market that creates real jobs for more people across all sectors,” she said. “That can only happen if we rethink our economic and industrial policies and provide better support systems like access to finance and childcare. These are the practical barriers that hold many women back.”

Moleko also highlighted the importance of removing structural obstacles that make it difficult for women to fully participate in the economy. Without addressing these issues, she warned, gender disparities in employment will continue.

--ChannelAfrica--